Final answer:
Attitudes towards hobos in the 1930s were a mix of sympathy and suspicion, while attitudes towards the homeless today are characterized by a better understanding of systemic issues yet still tainted by stigma. The stigma surrounding homelessness has persisted over time though society's approaches to help the poor have evolved. Advocacy remains essential to address stigma and enact systemic change.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the 1930s, attitudes towards hobos—individuals who wandered in search of work due to the Great Depression—were often a mix of sympathy and suspicion. They were typically viewed as victims of a failing economy, yet also sometimes as a potential threat, reflecting economic fears of the time. Many sought temporary shelter or work, hitching rides on railroad boxcars, and sleeping under bridges to survive. Today, attitudes towards the homeless are still complex and vary widely, but there's a more pervasive awareness of systemic issues that contribute to homelessness. Contemporary society recognizes a range of factors from mental health, addiction, and lack of affordable housing as central to the problem. Despite this, stigma still persists, and the homeless often face discrimination and exclusion.
Despite the passage of time, the stigma surrounding homelessness remains. Studies have shown that while those who have transitioned from homelessness to housing feel a reduction in interpersonal stigma, the pain of their past experiences and the broader societal stigma continue to affect them deeply. The media, local policies, and community attitudes play significant roles in perpetuating this stigma.
Efforts to assist the poor and homeless have evolved, with modern approaches including diverse social programs and housing-first strategies in contrast to the more localized and individual-based efforts of the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, despite these advancements, fundamental attitudes may still be slow to change, and advocacy for the homeless community is vital to address ongoing stigma and push for systemic changes.